Team GB Preparation Camp welcomes the Olympic Torch Relay

The Olympic Flame was welcomed to Team GB’s Preparation Camp in Loughborough on day 46 of the Torch Relay.

Carried to Camp by women’s volleyball Head Coach Audrey Cooper, she was welcomed by Team GB Chef de Mission, Andy Hunt and Deputy Chef de Mission, Sir Clive Woodward.

Also in attendance were Olympic Gold Medallists and Team GB Ambassadors David Hemery CBE and Amy Williams MBE, and members of the Olympic Ambition Programme, on a two day visit to the Preparation Camp.

Audrey Cooper has been involved in volleyball for over 35 years. As well as a coach Audrey is an Olympian, who competed for Team GB in the inaugural Olympic Beach Volleyball tournament at the 1996 Atlanta Games.

Audrey received the torch on the University campus from another Olympian, speed skater Jonathan Eley, who has represented Team GB at the 2006 and 2010 Winter Games.

Members of the Olympic Ambition Programme, which will give approximately 185 young British athletes and coaches the unique opportunity to experience the Olympic Games environment at first hand, were present to welcome Audrey and the Olympic Flame.

Basketball player Harriet Ottewill-Soulsby, from Loughborough, who is one of the Ambition Programme athletes, said:

“It’s been fantastic to be part of today. Being here for the last two days has been inspirational and welcoming the Olympic Flame has been one of the highlights.”

The Preparation Camp will see approximately 550 athletes and 450 support staff pass through the “Team GB Experience” which includes the official kitting out process and an opportunity for athletes and support staff to sign up to the five “One Team GB” core values of Performance, Respect, Unity, Responsibility and Pride.